Kokopelli - Humpback Flute Player Kachina
by
cottonwood root, pigment
11.5" high x 3" wide x 3" deep
The Humpback Flute Player (Kokopelli) is an engaging image that originated in the ancient Paleo-American culture and was brought into the present by the Pueblo Indians. This classic figure of a bent over being playing a flute has been associated with shamanism and supernatural qualities. He is a magical being who, by playing his flute, calls the clouds to make rain.
Today, the Hopi play flutes over the springs to attract rain. Kokopelli is also a symbol for fertility because he carries seeds and mist in his hump. He is mischievous when it comes to seducing young maidens! It is interesting to note that the hump, an abnormality or deformity, is considered special, even magical and transformative. Shaman are often deformed or have narrowly escaped physical death.
